Huano Grape Orange vs. TTC Ice

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Grape Orange and the TTC Ice stand out as two notable linear options, each catering to different preferences for typing feel and aesthetic appeal. The Grape Orange switches are celebrated for their exceptionally light 40g actuation force, providing an effortlessly smooth typing experience that feels almost effortless, making them ideal for users who enjoy extended typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switches boast a striking crystal-clear design and deliver a smooth, responsive feel paired with a satisfying bottom-out sound, making them a fantastic choice for both gamers and everyday typists who appreciate an engaging auditory experience. While the Grape Orange excels in comfort and lightness, the TTC Ice shines in visual appeal and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

TTC Ice Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Grape Orange and TTC Ice switches share a common material for their top housing: polycarbonate. Both switches benefit from the advantageous properties of this material, which enhances their sound profiles significantly. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffness and translucence, produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for users who appreciate clear sound quality and vibrant RGB lighting, as the material’s transparency allows for better light diffusion. Consequently, the top housing of both switches being made from polycarbonate ensures that players can achieve similar auditory and visual experiences, enhancing their overall keyboard aesthetics.

In contrast, the bottom housing of these two switches diverges in material choice. The Grape Orange utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its softer properties, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder acoustic experience that many typists and gamers may prefer for a more muted but rich aural feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Ice employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well. This results in a consistent sound profile across both sections of the TTC Ice, maintaining that crispness and clarity found in its top housing. Thus, the difference in bottom materials may yield varying tactile sensations and auditory experiences, suiting different user preferences.

The choice of housing materials ultimately influences the overall performance and auditory character of each switch. For those looking to experience the full fidelity of both switches, the Grape Orange provides a rounded sound due to its nylon bottom, while the TTC Ice offers a consistent sharp sound throughout, thanks to its polycarbonate construction on both ends. Users seeking a unique feel and sound profile may gravitate towards the Grape Orange for its rich, deep auditory signature, while those who value clarity and brightness might prefer the cohesive sound experience of the TTC Ice. These distinctions highlight the nuanced interactions between housing materials and sound profiles in mechanical switches.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge, impacting user experience significantly. The Grape Orange features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer easy key presses for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the TTC Ice switch requires a slightly stronger push, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to users who favor a more substantial feel when typing. Consequently, while both switches have their merits, the Grape Orange is lighter overall, providing a more effortless typing experience, while the Ice offers a heavier and potentially more tactile response, suitable for those who enjoy a firmer keystroke.

Travel distance

Both the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that users will experience similar keypress responses when using either switch. Since they share this identical travel distance, both switches will provide an equally consistent feel when pressing down on the keys. This similarity ensures that users who prefer one over the other will not notice a significant difference in terms of how far each switch travels from the top to the bottom during use.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When considering the sound profile of the Huano Grape Orange and TTC Ice linear switches, the Grape Orange is known for its mild, relatively quiet acoustics that cater to users seeking a more subdued typing experience, which makes it less intrusive during extended writing tasks. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switch offers a more pronounced bottom-out sound that adds an element of satisfaction, contributing to a premium auditory experience. However, it is important to note that the overall sound will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the type of keycaps used, making both switches capable of producing distinct auditory signatures depending on the setup.

In terms of feel, the Grape Orange switch excels with its ultra-light 40g actuation force, providing an effortless typing experience that is ideal for long periods of usage without finger fatigue. This light touch translates into a very responsive feel, making each keypress quick and fluid. Conversely, the TTC Ice switch is designed to deliver smooth and responsive feedback that enhances both gaming and everyday typing activities. While not specified on the exact actuation force, its tactile response suggests it could strike a balance between comfort and performance, appealing to users who enjoy a more immersive engagement with their keyboard.

In conclusion, both the Huano Grape Orange and TTC Ice linear switches cater to different preferences within the realm of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Grape Orange is perfect for those who desire a lightweight and quiet typing experience suited for extensive use, while the TTC Ice provides a more robust sound profile and responsive feel that enhances the overall user experience. Ultimately, each switch offers a unique set of attributes, allowing users to choose based on their specific needs and preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice made.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you desire a light and effortless typing experience, particularly for long hours of writing or coding, the Grape Orange, with its low 40g actuation force and only 50g bottom-out force, is the ideal choice. This makes it especially suitable for newcomers who may appreciate less resistance in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a satisfying bottom-out sound, the TTC Ice would be more to your liking. With its 60g bottom-out force, this switch delivers a more robust typing sensation that can benefit both gaming and general use, striking a balance between comfort and feedback. The choice between these two largely comes down to whether you prioritize a lighter touch for comfort or a heftier feedback for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, by considering these factors, you can select the switch that best aligns with your typing habits and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

TTC Ice Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more